Marijuana, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the hemp plant Cannabis sativa.” This plant contains the mind-altering ingredient, Tetrahydrocannibinol (more commonly known as THC), which causes the “high” when used. Marijuana can be smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes (joints), pipes or water pipes (bongs), or in a blunt (a hollowed out cigar filled with marijuana). In addition, users may ingest it in various forms such as tea or brownies. It is illegal to buy or sell marijuana if you are under the age of 21 in the state of California. In most states, even possessing small amounts of marijuana may lead to fines or arrest.

SLANG:

Weed

Pot

Herb

Grass

Ganja

Reefer

Mary Jane

short term effects include*:

Impaired memory

Reduced anxiety

Disrupted motor control

Stoked appetite

Elevated heart rate

Altered Sleep

Reduced Pain

*These symptoms may differ among users

long term effects include*:

Apathy, drowsiness, lack of motivation

Reduced ability to learn and retain information

Reduced sexual capacity

Potential permanent damage to brain and lungs

*These symptoms may differ among users

FACTS:

Although it seems like most young people smoke marijuana, 4 out of 5 young people do not currently use the drug and more than 50% have never tried it.

Marijuana use can lead to addiction: About 1 in 11 of those who use marijuana will become addicted, which increases to 1 in 6 for those who start in their teens.

High doses of marijuana can cause psychosis or panic when you’re high.

The 3Waves is a program of AACI Health & Wellness. Services from The 3Waves are made possible with grant funds from the Santa Clara County Substance Use Treatment & Prevention Services (SUTPS).